Navigating Parking Lot Regulations: Can Your Car Be Towed for Expired Registration?

Understanding the rules of parking on private property can be crucial to avoid unwanted towing or fines. This guide explores the conditions under which your vehicle might be towed for an expired registration in a private parking lot, and provides insights on the limitations and exceptions of local ordinances and property law.

Overview of Parking on Private Property

It’s common for residents or visitors to park in private lots, whether in residential areas, apartment complexes, or HOAs. However, these lots are private property, and the terms of use are often controlled by the lot’s owner.

Chances are that you are conditionally allowed to park in the private lot, but there are usually specific rules in place. One of these rules may be the regular registration of your vehicle. This means that if your registration is expired, the owner of the parking lot can have your vehicle towed at your expense.

Why Registration is Important

The owner of the parking lot may implement these rules for several reasons. One primary concern is that the lot not be overrun with unregistered or inactive vehicles, which can clog the spaces and detract from the overall functionality of the lot. Another reason is to ensure that the spaces are not occupied by stored vehicles, which might cause safety and accessibility issues.

What Happens if Your Car is Parked Without Proper Registration?

If your car is parked outside with expired registration, the chances of immediate towing are slim. However, the best practice is to ensure your vehicle is registered and in compliance with local ordinances. Failing to do so can lead to issues, including towing.

Even if you are not towed immediately, your vehicle might be cited for being an unregistered vehicle, especially if code enforcement becomes involved. The property owner can receive a citation for housing unregistered vehicles, which can further complicate matters.

Local Ordinances and Your Rights

In certain jurisdictions, such as Indiana, there are specific local ordinances addressing this issue. While police may remove an abandoned, unregistered, and inoperable vehicle from private property if it has been sitting for 30 days or more, this is a rare exception.

General rule: If you own the property or have explicit permission to park, the police have no authority to tow your vehicle for expired registration without the property owner's consent. This protects individual property owners and residents from unnecessary towing.

Conclusion

Understanding the local rules and having proper documentation, such as vehicle registration, can save you from unexpected towing fees and legal issues. Always check with the property owner and stay informed about local parking regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free parking experience.